Hypersonica Tests Mach 6 Prototype

Still from video of the launch of hypersonic missile prototype | Image: Hypersonica

Hypersonica has conducted a test flight of its hypersonic missile prototype, which the company says is part of its effort to develop a European hypersonic strike capability by 2029.

According to the German-British startup the prototype accelerated to speeds exceeding Mach 6 and reached a range of more than 300 kilometres. During ascent and descent through the atmosphere, all onboard systems operated as planned. Hypersonica stated that system performance was validated down to subcomponent level at hypersonic speeds.

Hypersonica co-founders Dr. Philipp Kerth, CEO, and Dr. Marc Ewenz, CTO, said: “Hypersonica has achieved a major milestone on our pathway to developing Europe’s first sovereign hypersonic strike capability by 2029. Our test flight yielded invaluable datasets that will inform the design and development of future high-speed strike systems and enhance our ability to analyse adversary weapon profiles. As a privately funded startup, our speed from design to the launchpad in just 9 months should recalibrate expectations about the costs and time needed to develop this crucial capability.

This is a proud moment for European defence innovation.

“This is a proud moment for European defence innovation. As Europeans grounded in the values of freedom and democracy, we pursue this work with a clear sense of responsibility for the safe and principled development of this cutting-edge technology.

“We are grateful for the expert support and partnership from Andøya Space on this successful mission.”

The company said preparation for the maiden flight included design, procurement, integration, ground testing, export control compliance, flight safety and range coordination, completed within nine months.